How could the weather affect your car insurance?

South African motorists may do their utmost to avoid driving in bad weather or parking their cars in places that are exposed to bad weather. Unfortunately, motorists can’t always avoid severe weather conditions and should consider how the damage to their vehicles could affect their financial wellbeing and use of their cars. Bad weather conditions can directly damage cars through hail storms and floods. They can also indirectly bring about a vehicle accident by causing low visibility and poor road conditions.

Hopefully, if you are in an unfortunate situation where you see your car being swept away in a raging river, you will have some peace of mind knowing that you are covered. Read on and discover how the weather could affect your car insurance.1

Disclaimer

This article should only be considered for information purposes only as car insurance is not straightforward. Please obtain professional advice from a certified financial advisor if you want to purchase car insurance.

Motorists need cover 1

There is no getting away from it – motorists do require cover for their cars. Sadly, because third-party car insurance is not compulsory in South Africa, only about 30% of all vehicles on the road are insured.

The issue at stake here is financial – who can afford to lose their car in a flood situation?

Check your policy schedule

It’s one thing not being insured but another if you are insured but not covered for bad weather conditions. You need to check your car insurance policy schedule and make sure it covers weather conditions such as flooding or hail damage. Some insurers won’t cover you if 111 it even more dangerous.

How the weather affects you depends on the type of car insurance you may have and what is covered.

Comprehensive car insurance cover

Customise car insurance

Third-party plus car insurance

What is meant by the term ‘flooding’? 2

As the insured, find out how your insurer defines the term ‘flooding’. For instance, the South African Ombudsman for short-term insurance has stated that car insurance does not cover engine damage caused by driving through deep floodwater. Flooding is generally regarded as caused by rainstorms, giant waves crashing onto cars, and cars swept off flooded bridges.

Sources:

1. 1. Third-Party Car Insurances: 70% of Cars in South Africa are Not Insured
   2. Does car insurance cover flood damage?